WCH man accused of rape makes insanity plea

A Washington C.H. man accused of raping a 6-year-old girl is pleading “not guilty by reason of insanity” in his Fayette County Court of Common Pleas case.

Benjamin L. Knisley, 28, of 1025 Dayton Ave., Lot 12, originally pleaded not guilty at his June arraignment, but according to a motion filed by his attorney, Thomas Arrington, the insanity plea was determined to be appropriate “after having the opportunity to discuss Defendant’s mental health diagnosis.”

Knisley is scheduled to be evaluated for insanity and competency. His trial will likely be held in late September, according to court officials.

A report was made May 4 alleging that an adult male was having sex with a 6-year-old female, according to the Washington Police Department. Following an investigation, Knisley was arrested May 24.

While in jail, Knisley was served with an indictment charging him with 10 counts of rape, all felonies of the first degree, and five counts of gross sexual imposition, all felonies of the third degree.

Knisley is being held in the Fayette County Jail on a $1 million bond.